Solvation structure regulation of zinc ions with nitrogen-heterocyclic additives for advanced batteries

Abstract

Zinc-based battery performance is often hindered by side reactions, such as dendrite growth and hydrogen evolution, which are closely linked to the desolvation of hydrated zinc ions. This study demonstrates that the coordination microenvironment of zinc ions can be effectively regulated using poly-nitrogen heterocyclic compounds as electrolyte additives. With the composite electrolyte, the zinc electrode achieves reversible recycling for approximately 4000 h at a low nucleation overpotential (∼29 mV), demonstrating exceptional cycling stability. The solvation structure of hydrated zinc ions and chemical properties of zinc were regulated, thereby inhibiting side reactions to enhance cycling stability. Important insights into regulating the solvation structure of zinc ions and improving the reversible deposition process at the zinc–solution interface would offer valuable guidance to fabricate advanced zinc ion batteries.